Residents living at Royal Star and Garter Homes have received a letter from The Princess Royal, as the charity celebrates its 110th anniversary.

Princess Anne, the charity’s patron sent them her “best wishes for a wonderful celebration” in the letter, which was given to each veteran and spouse living at Royal Star and Garter Homes in Solihull, Surbiton and High Wycombe.

It comes as the charity marks its landmark anniversary in 2026.

To mark the occasion oak trees were planted in the gardens at the three homes in line with the community-led Veterans’ Oaks initiative.

At the Solihull home Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, MP for Solihull West and Shirley, was also on hand at the Home to help plant the oak tree, alongside Solihull Mayor Annette Mackenzie.

Residents at the Tudor Coppice home also enjoyed live music, and tucked into a bespoke 110th birthday cake.

Royal Star and Garter chair, Richard Williams, said: “The letter from The Princess Royal is a wonderful gift from our Patron to our residents and the planting of the oak trees, which symbolise strength, endurance and our belief in the future, will act as a living reminder of this anniversary for many years to come.

“This is a particular moment of pride and reflection and reminds us that we must build on our storied past to secure our services for future beneficiaries.

“Since 1916 we have provided exceptional care and unwavering support to veterans and their families. Today, as we plan to expand our services further, we look forward to continuing our necessary work.”

The Royal Star and Garter was established in January 1916 to care for severely injured men returning from the First World War, following concern expressed by Queen Mary. She charged the British Red Cross Society with finding a ‘permanent haven’ for severely disabled young men returning from war.

It is still supporting the military family, providing care to veterans and their families, living with disability or dementia.

The charity also provides services reaching into the community, including Lunch Clubs, Day Care and a national Telephone Friendship Service.

In her letter, Her Royal Highness lists key dates in the charity’s history, including its participation in the 1948 Stoke Mandeville Games – which launched the Paralympic movement – and the sale of its Home on Richmond Hill, which allowed for the building of three new state-of-the-art Homes.